Education

Empowering Minds: Education and Schools in Our Community

Education System: Supportive Schools and Regional Excellence

Families relocating to Ontario can feel confident in the city’s comprehensive and evolving educational system, which blends strong academics with cultural relevance and community engagement. Whether you have young children, teens preparing for college, or a personal interest in lifelong learning, Ontario offers enriching, accessible educational opportunities for all stages of life.

K-12 Public Schools: Ontario School District (OSD 8C)

Ontario School District serves the city’s Pre-K through high school students through a network of schools that prioritize academic growth, personal development, and equity. The district reflects the area’s cultural diversity—approximately 70% of students identify as Hispanic or Latino, and nearly 40% are English Language Learners. Bilingual education and culturally responsive teaching are central pillars of instruction.

Elementary and middle schools like Alameda Elementary, May Roberts Elementary, and Ontario Middle School emphasize academic foundations along with social-emotional learning, STEM enrichment, and arts integration. Ontario High School offers:

  • Advanced Placement (AP) courses
  • Dual-credit and early college programs
  • Career and technical education (CTE) pathways in health sciences, agricultural technology, and more
  • Performing arts, athletics, robotics, and multicultural clubs

Graduates attend colleges such as Oregon State, University of Oregon, Boise State, and other top regional institutions.

Community College and Career Training: Treasure Valley Community College (TVCC)

Located in the heart of Ontario, Treasure Valley Community College offers over 80 degree and certificate programs, including in-demand fields such as nursing, dental hygiene, business, and education. TVCC partners with high schools for dual-credit enrollment and offers university transfer pathways for bachelor’s degrees. Additional benefits include:

  • Affordable tuition for residents
  • Flexible schedules for working adults
  • Non-credit courses in language, technology, art, and professional development
  • On-campus events, theater, and cultural activities

Private and Charter School Options

Ontario also offers several charter and faith-based private schools with K-12 instruction, appealing to families seeking smaller class sizes, religious education, or alternative learning models. These schools offer strong academic programs, moral development, and personalized attention in structured environments.

Community-Based Learning Resources

Support for education extends beyond the classroom through trusted community institutions:

  • Four Rivers Cultural Center – Offers after-school programs, tutoring, college prep workshops, cultural exhibitions, and arts programming
  • Ontario Public Library – Provides tutoring, reading clubs, internet access, and educational programming for all ages
  • Parent-Teacher Organizations – Active in promoting family involvement and enhancing school resources

Access to Higher Education

Ontario is within driving distance of multiple four-year institutions, giving local students and adult learners additional opportunities to pursue advanced degrees:

  • Boise State University (Boise, ID)
  • College of Idaho (Caldwell, ID)
  • Eastern Oregon University (La Grande, OR)

These institutions collaborate with local schools to offer pathways for transfer, research opportunities, and teacher training.

Quick Reference Summary:

  • Ontario School District includes multiple elementary schools, one middle school, and Ontario High School
  • Strong focus on bilingual education, equity, and student achievement
  • Ontario High School offers AP, CTE, dual-credit, arts, and athletics
  • TVCC provides 2-year degrees, career training, and adult learning
  • Charter and private schools provide alternative K-12 education options
  • Four Rivers Cultural Center and Ontario Public Library extend learning beyond school walls
  • Access to Boise State University, College of Idaho, and Eastern Oregon University

Ontario’s education system is both reflective of its diverse community and forward-looking—helping students gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive in today’s world.

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